The best Sablet is perhaps the best Cotes du Rhone that doesn't have an appellation title yet. Bertrand farms just a couple acres of vines in Sablet, a mix of Grenache and Mourvedre, with just a dash of Syrah. Aromas of black plum and black raspberry meld with orange cordial, earth and underbrush, mulling spices and menthol. The palate is remarkably well balanced, built with elegant tannins with acidity that gives life to blackcurrant fruit and herb crusted earth before notes of violets, blueberries, and coffee beans land on the finish. This is a delight generally for fans of Sablet and Cotes du Rhone, but particularly for fans of the darker, earthier side of the appellation; especially if there's a hanger steak or trey baked squash somewhere nearby.